Horse Logging Risk Assessment

RISK ASSESSMENT; HORSE EXTRACTION.

This is a generic risk assessment for the extraction of felled and presented timber by horse. A site specific risk assessment should be completed for each contract/work site.

Timber extraction by a well trained horse with a professional handler presents minimal risks. However, specific care should be exercised if the site requires it, eg. high volume public use. It is also necessary for all working on the site to understand and take account of the horse's temperament and, in particular, the need to avoid sudden and unexpected movements or noise.

The handler is responsible at all times for the safety and well being of the horse. Only if the handler is incapacitated or specifically requests it should anyone else on site take charge of the horse.Refer primarily to AFAG Guide 506, 'Extraction by Horse'.

Handler to wear suitable PPE as identified in the Guide and in the Site Specific Risk Assessment. Mobile telephone and safety whistle to be carried. No amount of PPE and other safety equipment is a substitute for safe working practice and systems.

A suitable level of valid Public Liability Insurance is required. Employers' Liability insurance is also required in all circumstances.

Employers' Liability Insurance is only not required when a contractor only ever works alone and never with others (not recommmended) or when other contractors are only ever 'bona fide subcontractors' (for example tree surgeons not working to directions of the principal contractor) or when all subcontractors and/or employees are direct members of the main contractor's family.

Horse's harness and equipment to be kept in good repair and maintained and/or replaced as required. Equipment selected to be suitable for horse, timber to be handled, terrain and extraction distances. Shoes to be in good order and feet to be regularly trimmed. If worked unshod, feet to be well trimmed and regularly checked. Tetanus injections to be kept up to date. Suitable work, feed and rest regime to be established and maintained.

Due care should be taken to ensure that felling is carried on well away from the horse by ensuring that felling is started before the horse comes on to site and by working ahead of or away from the horse. Lone working is to be avoided when possible. If unavoidable, regular checks should be established to verify the safety of horse and handler.

Public Liability and Employers's Liability Insurance: Dates valid................................................

Company.......................................Cert. No.....................................................

Liability covered and level of cover..................................................................................................

Checked by: Name.....................................Signature.............................................Date…….

A site specific risk assessment must also be completed for any work